Chapter 1518

Hearing that, a flicker of doubt crossed Aaron’s eyes. Maybe things really were as Tessa said.

“So, what you mean is… your sister hid his identity, too?”

“Of course,” Tessa answered without hesitation. “My mother and I had no idea who Lucas really was. At first, we even thought he was some pretty boy living off her.”

“You could’ve seen it yourself. At my mother’s birthday party, he gave her a gift. We honestly thought it was fake.”

Aaron frowned in surprise. “Seriously? That actually happened?”

“Yes,” Tessa replied quickly. “Back then, I really believed he was just a sugar baby, so I wasn’t very polite to him. Maybe that’s why Aurora chose to hide his identity and trick all of us.”

As she spoke, a faint tremor softened her voice.

Her lashes shimmered with tears as she looked straight at him. “I swear, I never meant to deceive you. I just didn’t know who Lucas really was.”

Aaron’s heart wavered. Seeing her eyes glisten like that, he was convinced she must be telling the truth. Maybe he really had misunderstood her.

“I didn’t expect you didn’t know, either,” he said, his tone easing with guilt. “Seems I really was wrong about you. I never thought to look at it from that angle.”

Tessa turned her head slightly, her voice gentle.

“It’s fine. Even we didn’t know who he really was, so how could I expect you to? It’s just… my sister’s gone too far lately."

“Otherwise, I wouldn’t have even mentioned any of this. I never imagined she’d end up with such a powerful man. I truly am sorry.”

Then she looked at him with concern. “Aaron, are you all right? Did Lucas or your family make things difficult for you?”

Warmth flickered in his chest. He hadn’t expected her to worry about him at a time like this.

“Not great,” he admitted, straightening his shoulders. “But don’t worry, I can handle it.”

In truth, the situation was a mess, but his pride wouldn’t let him admit it, not when he finally had the chance to regain his footing in front of her.

He didn’t want Tessa to think less of him.

Tessa let out a soft sigh of relief.

“That’s good. I was really worried this might cause trouble for you. But hearing you say that, I can finally relax. I’m so sorry, Aaron. Next time, if anything happens, I’ll tell you right away.”

Then she smoothly shifted all the blame onto Aurora.

“Look at how things turned out. If my sister had told me about Lucas’ identity earlier, none of this would’ve happened. I would’ve told you the truth from the start.”

Aaron’s expression softened. “This really isn’t your fault. If anyone’s to blame, it’s your sister. She’s far too cunning, keeping it from her own family.”

“I never thought she’d be like that. You should really stay away from her from now on.”

Tessa’s eyes glistened as she looked up at him. “But wouldn’t that be wrong? She’s still my sister, after all. Mother doesn’t want to see us at odds.”

Aaron scoffed. “But she’s the one who kept this from you. She’s the one hoarding all of Lucas’ power and status for herself. She’s out there enjoying the spotlight, while you and your mother are left worrying about company projects. Tell me, is that fair to you?”